Scientists develop breathalyser that detects cocaine in just a few minutes

DECCAN CHRONICLE

Published May 14, 2018, 2:24 pm IST

Updated May 14, 2018, 2:24 pm IST

Experts hope the device will soon be able to spot other drugs too.

Scientists develop breathalyser that detects cocaine in just a few minutes. (Photo: Pixabay)

Researchers have developed a breathalyser test that can detect cocaine within minutes, The Sun reported.

The invention could help in the battle on the war on drugs. Experts are hopeful the 7p microchip will soon be able to also spot marijuana and opioid.

The device, with the help of chemicals interacting with light, can spot the drug in breath, urine, blood or saliva.

The tech, Surfaced Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy, has been around for a while. However, what scientists have developed is faster detection speed at a low cost.

"The chip can be produced using raw materials that cost around 10 cents (7p)," Prof Qiaoqiang Gan from the Buffalo University in New York State, is quoted as saying by The Sun. Adding, "We hope to also use this technology to detect other drugs."